Culturally diverse Victorians targets of racism

A large survey of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people living in Victoria reveals almost two-thirds have been targets of racism in the past year, with nearly half reporting they had experienced six or more incidents a year.

The University of Melbourne, VicHealth, beyondblue and Department of Immigration and Citizenship survey of 1139 residents, released today, also shows 40 per cent of people who had been victims of at least 9 incidents of racist behaviour over the previous 12 months suffered high or very high mental distress.

Survey participants experienced racism in public spaces (35%), in the workplace (32%), at the shops (30%) and on public transport (29%). It was also common in education (22%), sports (20%) and housing (18%).

“A major finding of this study is that racism at any level is associated with worse mental health. People who experienced racism on a monthly or more frequent basis were more likely to be above the threshold for high psychological distress than people who had no experience of racism,” she said.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter, said: “It is appalling that half the people we surveyed were called racist names, teased or heard racist jokes or were verbally abused, and 44 per cent were ignored, told they were less intelligent or that they did not belong because of their cultural background. It’s clear that racism hurts more than your feelings – it’s a very serious, but preventable, health issue.”

The release of this data follows the publication of similar research last week which found a massive amount of racism directed at the 755 Aboriginal Victorians surveyed, with 97 per cent saying they had been targeted in the past year.

Ms Rechter added that it is not clear whether Aboriginal people were actually targeted more or whether they were more aware of subtle racist behaviour.

“In any case, there is never an excuse to be racist to anyone, at any time,” Ms Rechter said.

“This research shows that incidents that might seem harmless can accumulate and have a powerful impact. Every racist incident that we can prevent can make a difference.”

beyondblue CEO Kate Carnell AO said the survey’s results were upsetting, but provided added incentive to stamp out racism.

“Prejudice is a terrible force and unfortunately it still exists in our community,” she said. “The experiences of racism as reported in the survey cause enormous distress, which can put people at greater risk of depression and anxiety.

“Clearly we must work together to ensure all Australians have the best possible chance of maintaining good mental health.”

The report will be officially launched today at the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria (ECCV) state conference in Melbourne by ECCV Chairperson Joe Caputo and the research partners.